Systems and methods for providing games of chance with a plurality of pay tables

ABSTRACT

Systems, methods, and gaming devices provide a game of chance in which house indicia and at least two bonus indicia are randomly selected. A first prize is awarded according to a first pay table if a winning pattern of the player indicia is matched by the selected house indicia and if all the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia. A second prize is awarded according to a second pay table if the winning pattern is matched and at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia. A third prize is awarded according to a third pay table if the winning pattern is matched but none of the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/788,013 filed on Mar. 7, 2013, which in turn claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/698,963 filed Sep. 10, 2012, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods for playing bingo and related games of chance.

Bingo is a game of chance played with randomly drawn articles typically having numbers or other indicia that players match against corresponding indicia on a player card or ticket. Traditional bingo games have numbers pre-arranged in a table, grid, matrix, or array, with winners determined by making a predetermined winning pattern with called numbers. The numbers may be printed on paper or cardstock, or electronically represented on a display with the subset of numbers for each play generally referred to as cards or tickets. When a single paper or other playing piece includes multiple cards, each may be referred to as a card face with the group of card faces referred to as a card or ticket. Players try to obtain the winning pattern or number of matches on their faces by covering or marking numbers on their cards as numbers are randomly selected or preselected from a predetermined group of numbers, such as 75 or 90 numbers, for example. Once a winning pattern is achieved or a predetermined number of calls are made, the game ends.

In contrast to keno, lotto, and related odds-based numbers games, regulations for bingo and related games generally include some requirement that the game must be played to conclusion. Although requirements may vary considerably by jurisdiction, this requirement is generally interpreted as requiring one or more winners. As such, if there are no winners in the prescribed number of calls, players continue to play for a consolation prize. Consolation prizes may be a fixed amount or a pari-mutuel prize based on the total or aggregate number and price of cards or tickets purchased by all players for that game. Payment of consolation prizes may be a significant operating expense for bingo gaming establishments. In addition, because of the uncertainty in the number of calls that may be required for a consolation prize winner, the use of consolation prizes to meet the requirement that the game be played to conclusion may reduce the total number of games that can be played in a given time period and thereby adversely affect scheduling of games and overall revenue for the operator.

There are many variations of bingo games and even bingo cards. For example, double-action cards have two numbers in each square. However, the most common bingo cards are flat pieces of cardboard or paper that contain 25 squares arranged in five vertical columns and five horizontal rows. More recently, computer generated visual representations of bingo cards and related game cards or tickets may be presented on a screen or display. Each space in the grid contains a single number, except there may be one or more “Free” spaces, which typically include at least the center space. The “Free” spaces are considered covered or filled from the beginning of the game. For games played utilizing 75 numbers or another multiple of 5 numbers, the letters B, I, N, G, and O may be pre-printed above the five vertical columns with one letter appearing above each column to assist players in more quickly locating a called number on their card(s). Players often play multiple cards for each game. For 75 number games, the numbers printed on the card are commonly arranged as follows: 1 to 15 in the B column, 16 to 30 in the I column, 31 to 45 in the N column, 46 to 60 in the G column, and 61 to 75 in the O column.

Many games offer progressive prizes that are often larger than fixed prizes. In virtually all keno, lottery, bingo, and slot machines, the progressive portion of the prize is split when there are multiple winners. The progressive portion is the current amount of the progressive meter less the amount of the base jackpot. The progressive portion grows by allocating a portion of every wager to the progressive meter. Thus, when there are multiple winners, the progressive amount is generally split evenly among all winners. For example, a game starts with a base jackpot of $10,000. As players make wagers, a portion of each wager is added to the progressive meter causing it to grow to $14,000. If two people were to win the progressive jackpot or prize during the same game, they would each be paid the base amount of $10,000 in addition to half of the progressive amount of $4,000 for a total prize award of $12,000. Additionally, in many instances the progressive prize is paid on an aggregate basis and would be split evenly among the winners for $7,000 each in this example.

In many keno and bingo games, player excitement is increased when large prizes are available for the players to win. For example, in some games, a progressive jackpot or prize is linked between gaming properties or states to enable the disparate players to compete to win the jackpot. Since more players are pooled together to try to win the progressive prize, the prize may be larger than a jackpot offered only among players playing at only 1 property.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one embodiment, system for providing a game of chance includes a first device configured to randomly select house indicia and at least two bonus indicia for the game of chance. The system also includes a second device configured to enable a player to play the game of chance using a plurality of player indicia. The second device is further configured to award a first prize according to a first pay table upon a determination that a winning pattern of the player indicia is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that all the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia. The second device is configured to award a second prize according to a second pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia is matched by the player indicia. In addition, the second device is configured to award a third prize according to a third pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that none of the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia.

In another embodiment, a gaming device provides a game of chance. The gaming device includes a memory device configured to store computer-executable instructions for a game of chance and to store a plurality of randomly selected house indicia and at least two bonus indicia for the game of chance, wherein at least two of the selected house indicia are automatically designated as bonus indicia. The gaming device also includes a processor coupled to the memory device. The processor is programmed to provide a plurality of player indicia and to award a first prize according to a first pay table upon a determination that a winning pattern of the player indicia is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that all the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia. The processor is also programmed to award a second prize according to a second pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia is matched by the player indicia. In addition, the processor is programmed to award a third prize according to a third pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that none of the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia.

In yet another embodiment, a method of providing a game of chance includes randomly selecting a plurality of house indicia for a game of chance, randomly selecting at least two bonus indicia, and providing a plurality of player indicia on a player card. The method also includes awarding a first prize according to a first pay table upon a determination that a winning pattern of the player indicia is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that all the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia. The method also includes awarding a second prize according to a second pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia is matched by the player indicia. In addition, the method includes awarding a third prize according to a third pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that none of the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system that may be used to play a game of chance

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of another system that may be used to play a game of chance

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a computing device that may be used with the system shown in FIG. 1 or the system shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a gaming device that may be used with the system shown in FIG. 1 or the system shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a plurality of program modules that may be used with the system shown in FIG. 1 or the system shown in FIG. 2 to administer a game of chance

FIG. 6 illustrates a plurality of pay tables that may be used with the system shown in FIG. 1 or the system shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a method that may be used to provide a game of chance using the system shown in FIG. 1 or the system shown in FIG. 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Systems and methods for playing a game of chance, which may be played as a standalone game of chance or in combination with another game of chance, are described herein. In one embodiment, a player selects a player card that includes a plurality of player indicia to be matched during the game. The player may also select the player indicia within the player card and/or may select the winning pattern of player indicia to be matched in order to win a prize. A standalone or computer-based randomization device may be used to randomly select a plurality of house indicia.

In one embodiment, a predetermined number of bonus indicia are provided during the game to enhance the prizes that may be won by the player. In one embodiment, the first predetermined number of house indicia that are randomly selected by the randomization device are automatically designated as bonus indicia. For example, the first 2 or the first 3 selected house indicia may be automatically designated as bonus indicia.

If the player matches the winning pattern of player indicia on the player card with the house indicia selected during the game, the player may win a prize. For example, if the player matches the winning pattern as well as all of the bonus indicia, the player may win a prize based on a first pay table. If the player matches the winning pattern along with at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia, the player may win a prize based on a second pay table. In addition, if the player matches the winning pattern but does not match any of the bonus indicia, the player may win a prize from a third pay table. In one embodiment, the prizes of the first pay table are higher (or more valuable) than the prizes of the second pay table, and the prizes of the second pay table are higher (or more valuable) than the prizes of the third pay table. Alternatively, any suitable number of bonus indicia and/or pay tables may be provided.

A technical effect of the systems and methods described herein includes one or more of: (a) randomly selecting a plurality of house indicia for a game of chance; (b) randomly selecting at least two bonus indicia for the game of chance; (c) providing a plurality of player indicia on a player card; (d) awarding a first prize according to a first pay table upon a determination that a winning pattern of the player indicia is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that all the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia; (e) awarding a second prize according to a second pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia is matched by the player indicia; and (f) awarding a third prize according to a third pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that none of the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia.

As used herein, a “game of chance” or “game” refers to an electronic game that is played by a player in which an outcome of the game of chance is at least partially based on chance or a random selection of game components. It should be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art that the term “random” is not limited to true randomness, such as truly random numbers. Rather, pseudorandom numbers and pseudorandom algorithms are included within the meaning of “random.” In addition, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that permutation generators may additionally or alternatively be used to generate player card indicia.

Gaming devices described herein may use real money for play, or may utilize a credit-based system in which the credits used for the games do not have a cash value. Similarly, prizes for the games may be in the form of credits, cash, and/or physical prizes such as televisions, automobiles, or the like.

The play of a game, or the game play, includes the drawing or selection of a plurality of house indicia after one or more player cards have been selected. The house indicia are drawn or selected until a game ending criteria is met. The game ending criteria may include, for example, the matching of a pattern on the player card, or the drawing or selection of a predetermined maximum number of house indicia. It should be recognized that other suitable game ending criteria may be used to end the play of the game.

As used herein, the term “player indicia” refers to indicia, such as objects, graphics, symbols, numbers, letters, or the like, that are printed on, displayed on, or otherwise associated with a player card used by the player to play a game of chance. In at least some embodiments, the player may select one or more player indicia for each player card.

The term “house indicia” or “game indicia” refers to indicia generated, called, or otherwise selected by a gaming establishment or an operator of the game. In one embodiment, house indicia are compared to player indicia on each player card to determine if each player card satisfies one or more winning conditions.

The term “ball call” refers to a random selection of house indicia in connection with a game of chance. The terms “select,” “draw,” “call,” “determine,” and “generate” are used interchangeably with respect to the selection of house indicia, numbers, or balls in a game. A ball call may include drawing or receiving a random ball with a number indicated on the ball, or may more generally refer to a random selection of a number or another suitable house indicia using a randomization device. A “ball,” as used herein, may be a round plastic, wood, or glass spherical object with a number or other indicia displayed thereon, or may be an electronic representation of a spherical object with a number or other indicia displayed thereon. It should be recognized that the term “ball” may also include non-spherical objects or electronic representations, such as cubes, electronic images, and/or the numbers or indicia by themselves.

As used herein, the term “pattern” refers to a predetermined combination of spaces of a player card. In at least some embodiments, a winning combination is satisfied if player indicia included within the spaces associated with a pattern are matched to house indicia called during the game.

As used herein, the term “the house” refers to a game operator or a gaming establishment operator. For example, if a game is operated within or by a casino, the casino may be referred to as the house. Alternatively, the house may refer to a software application contained within a mobile device, such as a cell phone or a tablet computing device, that operates the game on the mobile device.

“Gameplay data,” as used herein, refers to data associated with a player that is also associated with the results of one or more games that the player has played or is in the process of playing. Gameplay data may include, for example, a number of credits or an amount of currency available to the player, a number of games played, a number of games won or lost, a winning or losing streak, and/or any other suitable data.

As used herein, the term “fixed prize” or “fixed payout” refers to a prize or payout that is a predetermined multiple of an amount wagered on the game, or that is a fixed amount regardless of the amount wagered. The fixed prizes or payouts are typically listed on a pay table associated with the game.

In contrast, progressive prizes or payouts are prizes or payouts in which at least a portion of the payout or prize increases or changes based on the amounts wagered by the players who are playing the game to win the progressive prize.

A “local game” is a game that is played by players within a predetermined location, such as within a single gaming establishment, or players playing the game across a local area network. A “local prize” or a “local payout” (including a local progressive prize or a local progressive payout) is a prize that may be won during a local game.

In some embodiments, different groups of players may qualify to compete to win different prizes. For example, a first group of players positioned in a gaming establishment may be able to compete to win one or more local prizes (e.g., progressive prizes and/or pari-mutuel prizes) while a second group of players may not be able to compete to win those prizes, for example, if the second group of players is positioned outside of the gaming establishment. However, the first group of players and the second group of players may be able to compete to win one or more other shared or common prize, such as one or more progressive and/or pari-mutuel prizes administered over a wide area network.

An “individual prize” is a prize that is only awarded to a player of an individual gaming device. For example, if a group of players are playing a game over a network, the game may provide one or more individual prizes that are tied to a single gaming device such that the individual prizes are only able to be won by the player of the gaming device. Individual prizes are sometimes referred to as gaming device specific player prizes because the individual prizes are specific to a player's gaming device. Accordingly, while a plurality of players may play to win one or more shared or common progressive prizes and/or pari-mutuel prizes, each player is prevented from winning individual prizes associated with, or “tied to,” any other player's gaming device.

As used herein, the terms “connect” and “couple” are not limited to only including direct connections. Rather, unless otherwise specified, indirect connections are included within the definitions of “connect” and “couple.” For example, two devices may be considered to be connected together even if there are other devices or components connected between the two devices. Any suitable means to connect or couple devices or components together may be used.

A player reward card refers to a physical or electronic card, token, or other device or data that enables a system to identify a player in connection with, among other things, a reward program or campaign. Accordingly, the player reward card may serve to identify the player and may enable game play, credits, funds, or other data to be associated with the player.

A player card refers to a card that may be used by the player to play bingo or another game of chance. The player card typically includes a plurality of spaces that may display or include player indicia. The player card may be an electronic card that is transmitted to a device or generated by a device that the player is using to play the game of chance. Alternatively, the player card may be manufactured from paper, cardboard, cardstock, plastic, and/or any other suitable material.

Methods described herein may be embodied within a plurality of instructions stored within a memory device of a computing device. Moreover, a processor of the computing device, or of a computing device coupled to the memory device, executes the instructions to perform the functions described herein and/or to cause the functions described herein to be performed. The instructions may be grouped together to form one or more computer-readable program modules.

Computing devices typically include at least one processor and at least one memory device. The processor may be, without limitation, an x86-based logic circuit, an ARM-based logic circuit, and/or a system-on-a-chip circuit. It should be recognized that these examples are non-limiting, and a variety of other programmable circuits may be included within the definition of “processor.” The memory device may include random access memory (RAM), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), hard disk drives, magnetic-based memory, and/or any other form of computer-readable memory.

A desktop computer is one example of a computing device. Other examples of computing devices include, without limitation, electronic gaming machines (also known as slot machines), cell phones, tablets, PDAs, laptop computers, and smart watches. It should be recognized that computers or computing devices may be implemented as one or more virtual machines, virtual servers, and/or any other virtual device. A server is another type of computer that may receive network connections from a computer or a plurality of computers or other computing devices.

As used herein, the term “module” or “program module” refers to a computer program, dataset, and/or instruction set that, when executed by a processor, performs the functions described herein. In one embodiment, the module may be included within a computer program, or may be connected to a computer program in any suitable manner. Any computer readable instructions may be programmed or hard-coded in a device, such as a gaming device, in any suitable manner.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system 100 that may be used to execute methods described herein to play one or more games of chance, such as bingo or keno. The games of chance may be played by a player against other players, or may be played by the player against the house.

System 100 is operated using components and devices within one or more gaming establishments 102, such as a first gaming establishment 104 and a second gaming establishment 106. It should be recognized that any suitable number of gaming establishments 102 may be provided within system 100. Accordingly, system 100 is not limited to including two gaming establishments 102 as illustrated in FIG. 1. In one embodiment, gaming establishments 102 are locations in which devices (e.g., gaming devices) that play or operate at least a portion of the game of chance are located. For example, gaming establishments 102 may be casinos, racetracks, bingo halls, or any other establishments. In another example, gaming establishments 102 may be residences or businesses in which one or more devices are located for playing or operating the game of chance. Gaming establishments 102 may additionally or alternatively include any combination of the examples described herein.

In one embodiment, gaming establishments 102 are physically remote from each other and are communicatively connected to at least one network 108, such as a wide area network (WAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), and/or the Internet, for example. Alternatively, gaming establishments 102 may be separate rooms or sections of a casino or another facility that are communicatively connected together by network 108.

In one embodiment, each gaming establishment 102 includes a local game server 110 (referred to herein as a “local server”) and a player reward server 112. Local server 110 is coupled to a plurality of gaming devices 114 through an internal network 116, such as a private local area network (LAN) within gaming establishment 102, for example. Gaming devices 114 may be located in separate gaming establishments 102, or within the same gaming establishment 102. In one embodiment, a gateway 118 is provided to enable local server 110 of each gaming establishment 102 to securely connect to network 108.

In one embodiment, local server 110 is a server computer (or “server”) that monitors and controls the games played on gaming devices 114, including local games. In one embodiment, the local games include games that are played against the house and/or that are played against other players within gaming establishment 102.

In addition, local server 110 may administer other background tasks that enable games to be played on gaming devices 114. For example, local server 110 may facilitate authenticating gaming devices 114 and the players using gaming devices 114, and may facilitate allocating payments or credits between players and the house. Local server 110 may include payment processing capabilities to enable players to receive electronic funds from a bank or another financial institution or to deposit electronic funds to the bank or financial institution. Alternatively, the payment processing capabilities may be included in a separate server or another device that is communicatively connected to local server 110. In addition, local server 110 may interface with player reward server 112 to facilitate tracking and administering player rewards. Each gaming device 114, group of gaming devices 114, local servers 110, remote servers 112, or the like may collect and/or generate data desired for accounting purposes, such as for use in slot accounting systems.

In one embodiment, local server 110 may enable gaming devices 114 within gaming establishment 102 to participate in one or more games that share one or more progressive or pari-mutuel prizes with other gaming establishments 102 and/or gaming devices 114. For convenience, progressive and pari-mutual prizes will be collectively referred to as “progressive prizes” unless otherwise specified. In such an embodiment, each local server 110 may be coupled to a wide area progressive (WAP) server 120 that administers the prizes. For example, WAP server 120 receives data from each local server 110 and/or from gaming devices 114 regarding an amount wagered by each player playing the game. WAP server 120 may allocate a portion of each wager to the prizes and may communicate the current prize amounts to local servers 110 and/or to gaming devices 114.

Gaming devices 114 include one or more kiosks or electronic gaming machines (EGMs) (also known as “slot machines”). Gaming devices 114 may also include one or more mobile gaming devices 122, such as, without limitation, cellular phones, tablet computing devices, and/or laptops, or any other suitable device. Mobile gaming devices 122 may connect to local server 110, WAP server 120, and network 108 via a wireless data network represented by cell tower 124. For example, mobile gaming devices 122 may connect to any suitable network 108 (and thereby to local servers 110 and/or WAP server 120) via a “3G” or a “4G” wireless data network. For convenience, gaming devices 114 described herein may also include mobile gaming devices 122.

During operation, the player utilizes or selects a gaming device 114 and initiates a gaming session for playing one or more games of chance (“games”). Optionally, player enters a player reward number or other identification information into gaming device 114. If the identification information is entered, gaming device 114 transmits the identification information to local server 110 for authentication, or authentication may be accomplished locally within gaming device 114. Local server 110 communicates with player reward server 112 to establish the player's identity and to associate the gameplay with the player account. Local server 110 authenticates the player and gaming device 114 and authorizes the player to play the game or games on gaming device 114 if desired or required.

When play of the game is initiated, during selection of the game, or during play of the game, the player may be required to purchase or generate credits. The player may purchase or generate credits by inserting cash or a ticket-in-ticket-out voucher into gaming device 114 or another device. Alternatively or additionally, the player may transfer credits or cash to gaming device 114 from banking accounts, credit accounts, gaming establishment accounts, and/or gaming company accounts. In one embodiment, computer-generated credits may be used with gaming device 114, for example, as part of a free-to-play game.

The player selects a game to play and enters a wager on gaming device 114. Gaming device 114 transmits data representative of the selected game and the wager to local server 110. If the player selects a game that is at least partially operated by WAP server 120 or that includes one or more progressive prizes administered by WAP server 120, local server 110 transmits the wager and game information and/or selection to WAP server 120. WAP server 120 may increment the progressive prizes based on the wager received from the player and may communicate the updated prize amounts via network 108 to all other players (via associated gaming devices 114) playing to win the progressive prizes.

The player plays the game on gaming device 114. The following gameplay is described as being administered by WAP server 120. However, it should be recognized that the gameplay (i.e., the play of the game of chance) may be alternatively or additionally administered by local server 110 and/or gaming device 114. For example, if gaming device 114 is a cellular phone or a tablet computing device, the gameplay may be administered through an application installed on gaming device 114.

In one embodiment, the player may play a game of bingo by selecting a game or game type, one or more player cards, selecting one or more winning patterns for the player cards, and/or selecting one or more numbers or other player indicia for the player cards using gaming device 114. The selected player cards, winning patterns, and player indicia are transmitted to WAP server 120. The player cards are included within one or more game tickets issued by WAP server 120, and the game tickets are communicated to gaming device 114 via network 108 and local server 110. WAP server 120 selects or receives randomly generated house indicia and compares the house indicia to the player indicia and the pattern or patterns selected for the player cards. Alternatively, the functions described herein (e.g., comparing the house indicia to the player indicia and the pattern or patterns selected for the player card) may be performed in gaming device 114. It should be recognized that the house indicia may be randomly generated using a randomization device, such as hardware, firmware, and/or software-based random number generator (RNG), a ball blower or console, a ball cage, and/or any other suitable device or machine that enables numbers or other house indicia to be randomly generated. In an alternative embodiment, WAP server 120 (or another device) may designate a server, computer, or another device to provide randomly selected house indicia during the game, and may receive the house indicia from the designated device.

WAP server 120 determines whether the player wins a prize based on the comparison of the house indicia to the player indicia. For example, WAP server 120 determines whether the player indicia within the pattern or patterns selected for each card match the house indicia that were randomly determined (sometimes also referred to as the house indicia that were “called”). If the player indicia within a pattern match the called house indicia, the player wins a prize based on a pay table associated with the game. The prize may be one of the progressive prizes or the prize may be a fixed prize identified in the pay table. WAP server 120 determines the appropriate payout to be paid to the player based on the pay table and transmits data representative of the payout to local server 110. As described more fully herein, the play of the game may determine which pay table of a plurality of pay tables the prize is chosen from.

Local server 110 receives the payout data and credits the player account accordingly. In addition, local server 110 may transmit the gameplay data and/or payout data to player reward server 112 to enable player reward server 112 to update the player history and other gameplay data for the player. When the player is done playing, the player may “cash out” some or all of the credits in the player account or may deposit the credits into the player account. The player account may be stored on gaming device 114, local server 110, or player reward server 112, for example.

In one embodiment, the player may enter the wager and/or may initiate play of the game on a first gaming device 114 and may complete the gameplay on a second gaming device 114. Alternatively, the player plays the game on first gaming device 114 and receives the results of the gameplay (e.g., whether the player won and how much the winnings are) on second gaming device 114. For example, the player may begin playing the game on a kiosk or electronic gaming machine, and may complete the game or view the results of the game on a cell phone. In such an embodiment, WAP server 120 and/or local server 110 may transmit the player's gameplay data from the 1st gaming device 114 to the second gaming device 114.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of another system 200 that may be used to execute methods described herein to play one or more games of chance, such as bingo or keno. Unless otherwise specified, system 200 is similar to system 100 (shown in FIG. 1) and similar components are labeled in FIG. 2 with the same reference numerals used in FIG. 1.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, system 200 includes a plurality of gaming devices 114 that are positioned in a plurality of gaming establishments 102. Gaming devices 114 may connect to network 108 without using a local server 110 (shown in FIG. 1), and may connect to WAP server 120 and/or to player reward server 112 through network 108. For example, gaming devices 114 may be playing one or more Internet-based games that connect to WAP server 120 through a web server. In some embodiments, one or more gaming devices 114 may connect to WAP server 120 and/or to player reward server 112 through a wireless data network as described above. Accordingly, gaming devices 114 interact with WAP server 120 to play the game, and WAP server 120 performs the game administration and other tasks handled by local server 110 as described above in FIG. 1. In other respects, system 200 performs in a similar manner as described above.

During operation, the player utilizes or selects a gaming device 114 and initiates a gaming session to play one or more games on gaming device 114. Player enters a player reward number or other identification information into gaming device 114. Gaming device 114 transmits the identification information to player reward server 112 to establish the player's identity and to associate the gameplay with the player account. Player reward server 112 authenticates the player and gaming device 114 and authorizes the player to play the game on gaming device 114. In one embodiment, gaming device 114 also transmits the identification information to WAP server 120 to enable WAP server 120 to associate the player with the game to be played. As previously described, player identification or authentication may be optional.

In another embodiment, WAP server 120 authenticates the player using the player identification information in addition to, or instead of, the authentication performed by player reward server 112. In some embodiments, player reward server 112 is omitted and the functions of player reward server 112 are incorporated within WAP server 120.

The player selects a game to play and enters a wager using gaming device 114. If the player selects a game that is operated by WAP server 120 or that includes one or more progressive prizes administered by WAP server 120, gaming device 114 transmits the wager and game selection to WAP server 120. WAP server 120 may increment the progressive prizes based on the wager received from the player and may communicate the updated prize amounts via network 108 to all other players (via associated gaming devices 114) playing to win the progressive prizes.

The player plays the game on gaming device 114. The following gameplay is described as being administered by WAP server 120. However, it should be recognized that the gameplay may be alternatively or additionally administered by gaming device 114. For example, if gaming device 114 is a cellular phone or a tablet computing device, the gameplay may be administered through an application installed on gaming device 114. It should be recognized that gameplay may be alternatively or additionally administered by gaming device 114 if desired.

In one embodiment, the player may play a game of bingo by selecting one or more player cards, selecting one or more winning patterns for the player cards, and/or selecting one or more numbers or other player indicia for the player cards using gaming device 114. The selected player cards, winning patterns, and player indicia are transmitted to WAP server 120. The player cards are included within one or more game tickets issued by WAP server 120, and the game tickets are communicated to gaming device 114 via network 108 and local server 110. WAP server 120 selects or receives randomly generated house indicia and compares the house indicia to the player indicia and the pattern or patterns selected for the player cards. It should be recognized that the house indicia may be randomly generated using a randomization device, such as hardware, firmware, and/or software-based random number generator (RNG), a ball blower or console, a ball cage, and/or any other suitable device or machine that enables numbers or other house indicia to be randomly generated.

WAP server 120 determines whether the player wins a prize based on the comparison of the house indicia to the player indicia. For example, in an embodiment in which the player plays a game of bingo, WAP server 120 determines whether the player indicia within the pattern or patterns selected for each card match the house indicia that were randomly determined. If the player indicia within a pattern match the called house indicia, the player wins a prize based on a pay table associated with the game. Alternatively, the player may win a prize if a predetermined number of the player indicia match the called house indicia. The prize may be one of the progressive prizes or the prize may be a fixed prize identified in the pay table. WAP server 120 determines the appropriate payout to be paid to the player based on the pay table and transmits data representative of the payout to gaming device 114 for display to the player.

WAP server 120 also credits the player account to reflect the prize that was won by the player. In addition, WAP server 120 may transmit the gameplay or payout data to player reward server 112 to enable player reward server 112 to update the player history and other gameplay data for the player. When the player is done playing, the player may “cash out” some or all of the credits in the player account and/or gaming device 114 or may deposit the credits in the player's account.

In one embodiment, the player may enter the wager and/or may initiate play of the game on a first gaming device 114 and may complete the gameplay on a second gaming device 114. Alternatively, the player plays the game on first gaming device 114 and receives the results of the gameplay (e.g., whether the player won and how much the winnings are) on second gaming device 114. For example, the player may begin playing the game on a kiosk or electronic gaming machine, and may complete the game or view the results of the game on a cell phone. The game completion may be for a game currently being played, or may be for one or more future games (i.e., one or more games that have not yet started. For example, the player may enter sufficient credits or other consideration into gaming device 114 to purchase gameplay for a plurality of future games that use the same player card or that use other preselected or random player cards. The player may then complete one or more of the future games on another gaming device 114 (or any other suitable device) and/or may receive the result of one or more of the future games on another gaming device 114 (or any other suitable gaming device).

In one embodiment, the player may purchase any number of future games (i.e., games to be played in the future) by entering a wager, a number of cards to play for each game, and a number of games to play. After inserting sufficient cash or credits to pay for the games, WAP server 120 or another device or machine that is administering the game (such as gaming device 114) may automatically display the called house indicia for each game and a result of each game to the player. The player may watch the results of the game in real time, or may view the results at a later time, for example, by viewing a summary of the game results. The player may view the results (in real time or later) on the same gaming device 114 used to initiate the games and enter the wagers, on another gaming device 114, or on any other suitable device.

In another embodiment, such as an embodiment in which the game is administered through an application installed on a cell phone, a tablet computing device, or another gaming device 114, WAP server 120 only administers the progressive prizes, or some or all prizes associated with the game being played. In such an embodiment, gaming device 114 randomly selects the house indicia using a randomization device included within, or connected to, gaming device 114. In addition, gaming device 114 may determine whether the player indicia within the player selected pattern match the house indicia, thus determining whether the player wins a prize. Gaming device 114 may transmit the results of the game to WAP server 120. The results of the game may include, for example, an indication whether the player won, the house indicia randomly selected, the player indicia selected, the player pattern selected, the number of ball calls that were required to match the house indicia to the player indicia, and/or any other aspect of the game.

In one embodiment, WAP server 120 confirms the result of the game before awarding the prize to the player. For example, WAP server 120 may determine whether the house indicia match the player indicia within the player selected pattern independently of the game result reported by gaming device 114.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a computing device 300 that may be used with system 100 (FIG. 1) or system 200 (shown in FIG. 2). More specifically, one or more gaming devices, servers, or other devices described in system 100 or system 200 may be implemented as a computing device 300. For example, local server 110, WAP server 120, player reward server 112, gaming devices 114, and/or mobile gaming devices 122 may be computing devices 300.

Computing device 300 includes a plurality of computing device components 302, such as a processor 304, a computer-readable memory device 306, and a communication interface 308. In one embodiment, computing device 300 may also include a display 310, a user interface 312, and/or an audio output device 314. It should be recognized that memory device 306, communication interface 308, display 310, and user interface 312 (if provided) may be connected to processor 304 and/or to each other via any suitable bus or busses, interfaces, or other mechanisms.

Processor 304 includes any suitable programmable circuit including one or more microcontrollers, microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), systems on a chip (SoCs), programmable logic circuits (PLCs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and/or any other circuit capable of executing the functions described herein. The above examples are exemplary only, and thus are not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or meaning of the term “processor.”

Memory device 306 includes one or more non-transitory computer readable media, such as, without limitation, random access memory (RAM), flash memory, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive, a compact disc, a digital video disc, and/or any suitable memory. Memory device 306 may include data as well as instructions that are executable by processor 304 to program processor 304 to perform the functions described herein. For example, the methods described herein may be performed by one or more processors 304 executing instructions stored within one or more memory devices 306.

Communication interface 308 may include, without limitation, a network interface controller (NIC) or adapter, a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, a public switched telephone network (PSTN) interface controller, or any other communication device that enables computing device 300 to operate as described herein. In one embodiment, communication interface 308 may connect to communication interfaces 308 of other computing devices 300 of system 100 or system 200 through network 108 or another network using any suitable wireless or wired communication protocol.

Display 310 may include, without limitation, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a vacuum fluorescent display (VFD), a cathode ray tube (CRT), a plasma display, a light-emitting diode (LED) display, a projection display, and/or any suitable visual output device capable of displaying graphical data and text to a user. For example, display 310 may be used to display a graphical user interface to a player or an administrator, one or more images associated with a game such as bingo, keno, or another game of chance, player statistics, gameplay data, and/or any other suitable data.

User interface 312 may include, without limitation, a keyboard, a keypad, a touch screen, a mouse, a scroll wheel, a pointing device, an audio input device employing speech-recognition software, a video input device that registers movement of a user, and/or any other suitable device that enables the user to input data into computing device 300 and/or retrieve data from computing device 300.

Audio output device 314 may include, without limitation, one or more speakers, or any other device that enables data to be audibly output from computing device 300. For example, gameplay data and/or music may be audibly output from audio output device 314. In addition, if the player wins a prize, audio output device 314 may be used to alert the player and/or others about the win.

While the foregoing computing device components 302 have been described as being included within a computing device 300, it should be recognized that at least some computing devices 300 may not include each component 302. In addition, a computing device 300 may include any suitable number of each individual computing device component 302. For example, a computing device 300 may include a plurality of processors 304 or processor cores, a plurality of memory devices 306 (of the same or different types, sizes, etc.), and/or a plurality of displays 310.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary gaming device 114 that may be used with system 100 (shown in FIG. 1) or system 200 (shown in FIG. 2). As described above, gaming device 114 is a computing device 300 that includes a plurality of computing device components 302. In addition, gaming device 114 may include a plurality of gaming device components 402 including a bill acceptor 404, a card reader 406, a barcode scanner 408, a printer 410, an intrusion detection system 412, a randomization device 414, and/or an accounting interface 416.

It should be recognized that in some embodiments, a gaming device 114 may not include each gaming device component 402 illustrated in FIG. 4. For example, if gaming device 114 is a cellular phone, gaming device 114 may not include bill acceptor 404, card reader 406, barcode scanner 408, and/or printer 410. Rather, in some embodiments, the functions of each omitted gaming device component 402 may be replaced by equivalent software, hardware, and/or firmware if desired. Optional components may be designated using dashed lines in the figures.

Bill acceptor 404 is a device that enables gaming device 114 to receive and identify paper currency. For example, bill acceptor 404 may receive and identify dollar bills that are inserted into bill acceptor 404. In one embodiment, bill acceptor 404 includes a scanner that scans paper currency inserted therein. Bill acceptor 404 may also include optical character recognition (OCR) capabilities that enable bill acceptor 404 to identify the amount of currency inserted into bill acceptor 404 from a scanned image of the currency. Bill acceptor 404 may transmit data representative of the amount of currency inserted into gaming device 114 to processor 304, for example. Processor 304 may cause the amount of currency to be converted into credits usable with the game, and may add the credits to the player's account.

Card reader 406 is a device that “reads,” or obtains data encoded in, player reward cards or other cards or media that are inserted into reader 406. In one embodiment, card reader 406 is a magnetic card reader that reads barcodes or magnetic strips included within a player reward card. In another embodiment, card reader 406 wirelessly reads data encoded within the player reward card by accessing a chip, such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip, embedded within the card. Card reader 406 decodes the data obtained from the cards and transmits the decoded data to processor 304. In one embodiment, card reader 406 is used to read player identification information encoded within player reward cards. Processor 304 may transmit the player identification information to player reward server 112 to identify the player, to allow for the transfer of funds or credits, to facilitate authenticating the player, and/or to authorize the player to play a game on gaming device 114. In one embodiment, the player may “log in” to gaming device 114 by swiping the player reward card or otherwise passing the player reward card through, or inserting the player reward card within, card reader 406. In another embodiment, the player may enter a number or other identifier associated with the player reward card into gaming device 114, through user interface 312 for example, instead of using card reader 406. In another embodiment, the insertion of the player reward card and player entering the identifier into user interface 312 may be combined. In yet another embodiment, the player may use a near field communication (NFC) device, such as an NFC device incorporated within communication interface 308, to read the player reward card or data representative of the player card.

In one embodiment, barcode scanner 408 is an optical or a magnetic scanner that is optimized to read barcodes on media positioned proximate to scanner 408. For example, barcode scanner 408 may be optimized to read barcodes printed on paper receipts (sometimes referred to as “tickets,” not to be confused with game or bingo tickets that may include player selected patterns, player indicia, and the like) and/or barcodes displayed electronically on a cell phone or tablet computing device. It should be recognized that the barcodes read by barcode scanner 408 may be linear or one-dimensional barcodes, two-dimensional barcodes, or may even include data represented in a form other than a barcode. For example, barcode scanner 408 may read images and/or text indicative of data, such as currency or credits, usable with gaming device 114. Barcode scanner 408 extracts the data from the barcode and transmits the data to processor 304. For example, barcode scanner 408 may scan a paper receipt or voucher that includes an amount of currency or credits usable by the player with a gaming device 114 and may transmit the amount of credits to processor 304. Processor 304 may cause the amount of currency or credits to be displayed to the player on display 310 to inform the player how many credits or currency is available to be used in playing a game.

Printer 410 may be used to print paper receipts (also known as tickets as described above) that indicate an amount of currency or credits available to the player. In many locations, the tickets or receipts may alternatively be referred to as vouchers. In one embodiment, printer 410 is a thermal printer that is fed by a roll of paper or any suitable paper stock. In a further embodiment, the roll of paper includes one or more watermarks that are visible when printer 410 has printed the receipt on the paper. Alternatively, printer 410 may print the watermark on the receipt, or may include another security mechanism to facilitate preventing counterfeit receipts from being made. For example, printer 410 may include an image or a code on the receipt that identifies gaming device 114, printer 410, or another component of gaming device 114 along with a time that the receipt was printed. Other suitable security mechanisms may be used as well. It should be recognized that barcode scanner 408 and printer 410 may cooperate such that a security mechanism printed on the receipt may be received and validated by barcode scanner 408, in conjunction with processor 304, for example. Barcode scanner 408 may be located remotely from gaming device 114, such as within a redemption kiosk, a casino cage, or the like.

Intrusion detection system 412 notifies processor 304 if a case, cabinet, or other housing enclosing components of gaming device 114 is opened or modified without authorization. In one embodiment, intrusion detection system 412 includes a pair of contacts that transmit an electronic signal to processor 304 if the housing of gaming device 114 is opened (e.g., if the opening of the housing separates the contacts). In another embodiment, intrusion detection system 412 may include a light sensor that detects a change in the light within the housing of gaming device 114. Intrusion detection system 412 may also include a key or another mechanism for disabling the transmission of the signal to processor 304 in the event that maintenance or other authorized access to gaming device 114 components is desired.

In one embodiment, intrusion detection system 412 includes a software program (a “monitoring program”) that monitors one or more applications installed on gaming device 114. For example, if gaming device 114 is a cell phone that includes an application for playing the game thereon, the monitoring program may monitor the application to determine whether the application is modified without authorization. In one embodiment, the monitoring program stores a hash value or a digital fingerprint of the application when the application is installed and/or when the application undergoes authorized modification (e.g., if the application is updated or patched). However, if the monitoring program determines that the application has been modified without authorization, the monitoring program may cause a signal or another notification to be transmitted to processor 304. For example, the monitoring program may periodically calculate a new hash value of the application and/or create a new digital fingerprint of the application. The monitoring program then compares the new hash value and/or digital fingerprint to the stored hash value and/or digital fingerprint. If the hash values or fingerprints are different, the monitoring program may determine that the application has been modified without authorization. It should be understood that the hash value, the monitoring program, and/or the digital fingerprint may be generated by any suitable means and may be encrypted for additional security.

In response to the signal or notification from intrusion detection system 412 and/or the modification program, processor 304 may perform one or more actions. For example, processor 304 may alert an administrator within gaming establishment 102 by transmitting a message via communication interface 308, may cause audio output device 314 to emit an alarm or another audible alert, may cause display 310 to display an error or a warning, and/or may disable the application and/or gaming device 114 such that the game is unable to be played on gaming device 114.

In one embodiment, randomization device 414 is an electronic random number generator (RNG) 414 or a permutation generator that may be implemented by a dedicated hardware device with associated embedded software. Alternatively, RNG 414 or the permutation generator may be implemented entirely in software executing on gaming device 114. In one embodiment, RNG 414 or the permutation generator provides house or game draws of between 1 and n numbers, where n may be a suitable number based on the game type selected to be played by the player. RNG 414 or the permutation generator may be programmed via hardware, software, or firmware to provide a particular range of numbers (or other indicia) and numbers of draws for a particular application. For example, in one embodiment of bingo according to the present disclosure, RNG 414 or the permutation generator initially provides 24 randomly generated numbers having values between 1 and 75 for each game. Additional draws or numbers may be provided to play the game to conclusion depending on the particular implementation as described in greater detail herein. In addition, RNG 414 or the permutation generator may be used to randomly select a plurality of player indicia to be used with one or more player cards. In embodiments in which a processor, such as processor 304, is described as randomly selecting indicia, it should be recognized that processor 304 may interface with randomization device 414 or the permutation generator to select the indicia. In other embodiments, processor 304 may include randomization device 414 or the permutation generator, or may execute instructions to perform the functions of randomization device 414 or the permutation generator.

Accounting interface 416 is used to interface with an accounting system, such as a slot accounting system, at or operated by a gaming establishment 102. Accounting interface 416 may include or be connected to a network interface, such as communication interface 308 for use in communicating gameplay data, player identification information, and/or other data to the accounting system for accounting and/or auditing purposes.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a plurality of program modules 500 that may be used with system 100 (shown in FIG. 1) or system 200 (shown in FIG. 2) to administer one or more games of chance, such as bingo or keno. In one embodiment, program modules 500 are installed and/or stored within local server 110, WAP server 120, and/or gaming devices 114. For example, program modules 500 may be stored in memory device 306 of local server 110, WAP server 120, and/or gaming devices 114.

Program modules 500 are firmware and/or software programs or applications that, when executed by processor 304 of local server 110, WAP server 120, and/or gaming device 114, cause processor 304 to perform the functions described herein. In one embodiment, program modules 500 include a wrapper program module 502, a plurality of game modules 504, a pay table module 506, a progressive prize module 508, a local prize module 510, a flashboard module 512, and/or an accounting module 513. A first plurality 514 of program modules 500 may be installed within each local server 110 and/or WAP server 120 and a second plurality 516 of program modules 500 may be installed within each gaming device 114. It should be recognized that in embodiments in which the game of chance is administered by gaming device 114 (e.g., when a cell phone or a tablet computing device is used as gaming device 114), some or all of the first plurality 514 of program modules 500 may be incorporated within gaming device 114 and executed by processor 304 of gaming device 114. Alternatively, some or all of the second plurality 516 of program modules 500 may be incorporated within local server 110 and/or WAP server 120. Together, wrapper program module 502, game modules 504, and other program modules 500 that present and/or administer one or more games may be referred to herein as a game application, or an application.

In one embodiment, wrapper program module 502 is used at least in part to provide a graphical user interface (GUI) on display 310 of gaming device 114. Wrapper program module 502 operates to provide an entry point or a game entry interface for a player to access gaming device 114, and to enable the player to select a game of chance to be played on gaming device 114. For example, the games of chance may be categorized into a plurality of game sizes and a plurality of game variations. Wrapper program module 502 may present the game sizes and the game variations to the player, using display 310, and may enable the player to select a game to play by selecting a game size and game variation through user interface 312.

In one embodiment, wrapper program module 502 may present a list of player card sizes (i.e., game sizes or matrices), such as 3×3, 4×4, and 5×5, to the player for selection on display 310. In addition, wrapper program module 502 may present a list of bingo games or game variations to the player for selection on display 310. Alternatively, the game size and game variation may be combined into one selectable icon, such as an icon representing a first variation of 3×3 bingo or a second variation of 5×5 bingo variation. If the player selects a size and variation, wrapper program module 502 calls or branches to a game module 504 that provides the selected game size and variation.

In one embodiment, game modules 504 each provide a game associated with the selected game size and game variation to the player using gaming device 114, local server 110, and/or WAP server 120. Accordingly, in one embodiment, each game is provided by a separate game module 504. Alternatively, each game module 504 may provide more than one game to the player.

Pay table module 506 provides one or more pay tables associated with each game. In one embodiment, pay table module 506 provides one or more pay tables associated with a game when game module 504 requests the pay tables and/or when a predetermined event occurs during the game. Pay tables associated with a game may be changed as desired by a game operator by any suitable means. The predetermined event may include, for example, the player selecting a “See Pays” or another icon displayed on display 310 that represents a request to view the pay table for the game. The predetermined event may also include reaching a point in the game in which the house indicia are matched to the player indicia within a selected pattern to determine whether the player wins a prize.

Progressive prize module 508 may be used to administer aspects of one or more progressive prizes, such as one or more progressive prizes offered to players playing across network 108. For example, progressive prize module 508 may receive information regarding an amount wagered by each player playing a game that has a chance to win the progressive prize. Progressive prize module 508 may allocate a first portion of each wager to a first progressive prize to increase the size of the progressive prize. Progressive prize module 508 may allocate a second portion of each wager to a second progressive prize, and may continue in a similar manner for any additional progressive prizes, if desired or applicable. Accordingly, a plurality of progressive prizes may be provided for each game and may be at least partially funded by each wager.

Local prize module 510 may be used to administer aspects of one or more local prizes, such as one or more prizes that may be won by players playing against each other within a gaming establishment 102. In addition, local prize module 510 may administer aspects of one or more fixed prizes, such as prizes that may be won only by individual players playing on respective gaming devices 114. Accordingly, fixed prizes may be awarded to a player based on the gameplay of the player against randomization device 414 of gaming device 114, rather than based on winning against other players.

In one embodiment, flashboard module 512 may be used to display called bingo numbers or other house indicia within one or more gaming establishments. In another embodiment, flashboard module 512 may be used to display called bingo numbers, keno numbers, or other house indicia on gaming devices 114 themselves, for example, on display 310 during play of the game. Flashboard module 512 may cause the house indicia to be displayed as a rectangular matrix of spaces (sometimes referred to as a “flashboard”). For bingo games played utilizing 75 numbers or indicia, the letters B, I, N, G, and O may be pre-printed above five vertical columns of the matrix with one letter appearing above each column to assist players in more quickly locating a called number on their card(s). For 75 number bingo games, the numbers printed on the card are commonly arranged as follows: 1 to 15 in the B column, 16 to 30 in the I column, 31 to 45 in the N column, 46 to 60 in the G column, and 61 to 75 in the O column. However, other arrangements of the flashboard may be used instead of the arrangement described herein.

Accounting module 513 may be used to interface with an accounting system, such as a slot accounting system, at or operated by a gaming establishment 102. In one embodiment, accounting module 513 is incorporated within, or executed by, accounting interface 416. Any suitable data, such as gameplay data, player identification information, an amount of prizes won by a player, and/or any other suitable data may be collected and transmitted by accounting module 513.

For keno games played utilizing 80 number or indicia, the numbers may be arranged sequentially in a matrix such that numbers 1-10 appear sequentially in a first row, the numbers 11-20 appear sequentially in a second row below the first row, the numbers 21-30 appear sequentially in a third row below the second row, and so on. It should be recognized that embodiments of keno games having a different number of player indicia (or spots) may be used, such as 49 or 25 spots.

It should be recognized that two or more program modules 500 may be combined together such that the functionality of each program module 500 is incorporated into the combined module. Likewise, each program module 500 may be split into two or more sub-modules that each perform a portion of the functionality of the program module 500 being split. Accordingly, while the above-described program modules 500 are described individually, each may be combined or split into other sub-modules as desired.

FIG. 6 illustrates a plurality of pay tables 600 that may be used with system 100 (shown in FIG. 1) or system 200 (shown in FIG. 2) to administer one or more games of chance, such as bingo. In one embodiment, pay tables 600 may be stored in, or provided by, pay table module 506 (shown in FIG. 5) and/or memory device 306 (shown in FIG. 3).

Pay tables 600 may include, for example, a first pay table 602, a second pay table 604, and a third pay table 606. Alternatively, any suitable number of pay tables may be provided. In one embodiment, a player of a game of chance may be presented with a specific pay table 600 (e.g., first pay table 602, second pay table 604, or third pay table 606) based on the number of bonus indicia that the player matches during the game.

In one embodiment, if the player achieves a winning pattern match and also matches all of the bonus indicia that were selected during the game (2 bonus indicia in this example), the player may be presented with the first pay table 602 such that any prize awarded to the player would be credited to the player according to the first pay table 602. If the player achieves a winning pattern and also matches at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia that were selected in the game (1 bonus indicia in this example), the player may be presented with the second pay table 604. Likewise, if the player achieves a winning pattern but does not match any of the bonus indicia that were selected in the game, the player may be presented with the third pay table 606. In some embodiments, more than 2 bonus indicia may be selected during the game, and additional pay tables may be provided for players who match the additional bonus indicia. For example, in one example, 4 bonus indicia may be selected and 5 pay tables may be provided for matching 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 of the bonus indicia. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the number of pay tables provided may be equal to the number of bonus indicia plus 1.

It should be recognized that the pay tables 600 may be provided in a “Multi-Win” fashion such that each player who matches a winning pattern and the same number of bonus indicia within a particular number of ball calls may win the same prize in the full amount of the prize, instead of only 1 player winning the prize or all winning players splitting the prize. Accordingly, in one example, if 2 players match or achieve the winning pattern (e.g., a coverall pattern) in 50 ball calls and the 2 players each have matched 1 of the bonus indicia, both of the players would win the full amount of the $25,000 prize without having to share the prize between the 2 players. In addition, after the 2 players matched the winning pattern on the 50th ball call, the game may continue to allow additional players to win any of the other prizes provided in any of the pay tables 600. For example, additional players may win a $25,000 prize for matching the winning pattern in 51 ball calls along with 2 bonus indicia, and so on. In such an embodiment, the game is not ended when a winning pattern is matched. Rather, the game is ended when a predetermined number of house indicia have been selected.

FIG. 7 illustrates a method 700 of playing a game of chance that may be used with system 100 (shown in FIG. 1) or system 200 (shown in FIG. 2). In one embodiment, method 700 is implemented by one or more processors of a computing device 300 (shown in FIG. 3), such as local server 110, WAP server 120, and/or gaming device 114 (shown in FIG. 1). It should be recognized that any steps of the methods described herein may be optional, and the order of the steps may be changed as desired in some embodiments.

In one embodiment, during operation of method 700, a first predetermined number of house indicia are selected 702. The first predetermined number of selected house indicia are automatically designated 704 as bonus indicia. For example, in a game of bingo in which 75 house indicia may be drawn, the first 2 house indicia may be drawn or selected from the pool of 75 house indicia, and the 2 house indicia that are selected may be automatically designated 704 as bonus indicia. Alternatively, any suitable number of house indicia may be selected and designated 704 as bonus indicia. In another embodiment, the house indicia that are automatically designated 704 as bonus indicia are not the first house indicia selected. Rather, the house indicia designated 704 as bonus indicia may be any predetermined house indicia, such as the 10th and 11th house indicia, the 20th and 21st house indicia, or any other suitable indicia.

After the initial house indicia have been selected and designated 704 as bonus indicia, the game continues and at least one additional house indicia is selected 706. In one embodiment, house indicia are sequentially drawn or selected until the game ends. Alternatively, a second predetermined number of house indicia (such as 20) may be drawn as a group, and then the remaining house indicia may be drawn sequentially until the game ends.

In one embodiment, the processor determines 708 whether the player has matched the winning pattern by matching the selected house indicia with the player indicia within the pattern on the player's card or cards. If the player has not matched the winning pattern, the processor determines 710 whether at least one more house indicia will be selected within the game. If at least one more house indicia is to be selected, the processor returns to selecting 706 at least one additional house indicia. However, if no more house indicia are going to be selected (i.e., if all house indicia designated for the game have been drawn), method 700 (and the game) ends 712.

If the player matches the winning pattern, in one embodiment, the processor determines 714 whether all the bonus indicia have been matched by player indicia within the winning pattern on the player's card. If all the bonus indicia have been matched, the player is awarded 716 a prize from a 1st pay table. The game may then end 712, or the game may continue to allow the player and/or other players to win the same prize from the 1st pay table or other prizes from the 1st pay table or other pay tables.

If all the selected bonus indicia are not matched, the processor determines 718 whether at least one of the bonus indicia have been matched. If at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia have been matched, the player may be awarded 720 a prize from a 2nd pay table. The game may then end 712, or the game may continue to allow the player and/or other players to win the same prize from the 2nd pay table or other prizes from the 2nd pay table or other pay tables.

If none of the selected bonus indicia is matched, the player may be awarded 722 a prize from a 3rd pay table. As described above, the game may then end 712, or the game may continue to allow the player and/or other players to win the same prize from the 3rd pay table or other prizes from the 3rd pay table or other pay tables.

The systems, methods, and examples described herein should be viewed as illustrative rather than limiting. For example, while the embodiments described herein generally refer to games of bingo and keno (or games related thereto), it should be recognized that the systems and methods described herein may be used with any suitable game of chance. Additionally, any number and type of house indicia, player indicia, and/or pay tables may be used with player cards during the game. Player cards, keno boards, and bingo flashboards may be of any suitable size or shape as desired to comply with relevant gaming regulations.

In addition, components of devices or systems described herein may be used in, and/or combined with, other devices or systems described herein unless otherwise specified. Likewise, the functionality of the systems and devices described herein may be used in, combined with, and/or incorporated into other systems and devices described herein unless otherwise specified. For example, two or more of the systems or devices described herein may be combined together, and/or one or more of the systems or devices described herein may be split into two or more other systems or devices.

Unless otherwise specified, “a” or “an” means one or more of a referenced object or step. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, each method described herein is not limited to the order in which the steps of each method are described or introduced. Rather, the steps may be rearranged in any suitable order, may be omitted, and/or may be combined with steps of other methods as desired. In addition, aspects or components of each embodiment and/or figure described herein may be omitted, or may be combined with, or modified to include, aspects or components of any other embodiment and/or figure unless otherwise specified.

Unless otherwise specified, the phrase “at least one of A and B” means one or more of A alone, one or more of B alone, or one or more of the combination of A and B.

This written description uses examples to describe embodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for providing a game of chance, said system comprising: a first device configured to randomly select house indicia and at least two bonus indicia for the game of chance; and a second device configured to enable a player to play the game of chance using a plurality of player indicia, wherein said second device is further configured to: award a first prize according to a first pay table upon a determination that a winning pattern of the player indicia is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that all the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia; award a second prize according to a second pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia is matched by the player indicia; and award a third prize according to a third pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that none of the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the game of chance continues after the winning pattern is matched.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the player is a first player of a plurality of players, wherein a second player of the plurality of players is enabled to win the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize after the first player has won the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the first player wins the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize after a first number of house indicia have been selected and wherein the second player wins the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize after a second number of house indicia have been selected.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the first player and the second player win the same prize.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the second device is a handheld computing device.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein said second device is configured to provide a number of pay tables that is equal to a number of designated bonus indicia plus 1, wherein the pay tables include at least the first pay table, the second pay table, and the third pay table.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein said first device is further configured to automatically designate at least the first two selected house indicia as the at least two bonus indicia.
 9. A gaming device for providing a game of chance, said gaming device comprising: a memory device configured to store computer-executable instructions for a game of chance and to store a plurality of randomly selected house indicia and at least two bonus indicia for the game of chance; and a processor coupled to said memory device, said processor programmed to: provide a plurality of player indicia; award a first prize according to a first pay table upon a determination that a winning pattern of the player indicia is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that all the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia; award a second prize according to a second pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia is matched by the player indicia; and award a third prize according to a third pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that none of the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia.
 10. The gaming device of claim 9, wherein said processor is further programmed to continue the game of chance after the winning pattern is matched.
 11. The gaming device of claim 10, wherein the player is a first player of a plurality of players, wherein the first player is enabled to win the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize after a second player of the plurality of players has won the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize.
 12. The gaming device of claim 11, wherein the second player wins the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize after a first number of house indicia have been selected and wherein the first player wins the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize after a second number of house indicia have been selected.
 13. The gaming device of claim 12, wherein the first player and the second player win the same prize.
 14. The gaming device of claim 9, wherein the first two selected house indicia are automatically designated as the bonus indicia.
 15. The gaming device of claim 9, wherein said processor is programmed to provide a number of pay tables that is equal to a number of designated bonus indicia plus 1, wherein the pay tables include at least the first pay table, the second pay table, and the third pay table.
 16. The gaming device of claim 9, wherein at least the first two selected house indicia are automatically designated as the at least two bonus indicia.
 17. A method of providing a game of chance, said method comprising: randomly selecting a plurality of house indicia for a game of chance; randomly selecting at least two bonus indicia for the game of chance; providing a plurality of player indicia on a player card; awarding a first prize according to a first pay table upon a determination that a winning pattern of the player indicia is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that all the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia; awarding a second prize according to a second pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that at least one, but not all, of the bonus indicia is matched by the player indicia; and awarding a third prize according to a third pay table upon a determination that the winning pattern is matched by the selected house indicia and upon a determination that none of the bonus indicia are matched by the player indicia.
 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising continuing the game of chance after the winning pattern is matched.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the player is a first player of a plurality of players, said method further comprising enabling the first player to win the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize after a second player of the plurality of players has won the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the second player wins the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize after a first number of house indicia have been selected, said method further comprising enabling the first player to win the first prize, the second prize, or the third prize after a second number of house indicia have been selected.
 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising enabling the first player and the second player to win the same prize.
 22. The method of claim 17, further comprising automatically designating the first two selected house indicia as the bonus indicia.
 23. The method of claim 17, further comprising providing a number of pay tables that is equal to a number of designated bonus indicia plus 1, wherein the pay tables include at least the first pay table, the second pay table, and the third pay table.
 24. The method of claim 17, further comprising automatically designating at least the first two selected house indicia as the at least two bonus indicia. 